This week we would like to introduce you to another talented young singer-songwriter, Jessy Barham. Jessy has been a long time student of our Kalabash community and last fall she wrote and recorded this original song in our songwriting and recording workshop with artist-teacher Natasha Kozaily and music producer Chad Farran! In our interview with her, Jessy opens up about the personal struggles and inspirations behind her song War & Peace, her favorite bands and more! Take a read and listen to her powerful original song below. We think she is one of the bravest young girls we know.

How long have you been playing music and writing songs?

I have been singing since fifth grade and playing piano for four years. However, I just started writing songs last year.

Tell us about the inspiration behind War & Peace

War and Peace is about a girl who gets bullied by her peers and is tired of it. She tries to be kind and loving, but it is hard since everyone around her is constantly making fun of her. So instead she confronts the bullies, letting them know she is done being treated so cruelly. This song was inspired by some personal experiences I had with bullies and how I wished I could have stood up to them instead of remaining silent.

This is the first time doing a recording workshop and producing one of your original songs. What was it like?

I thought it was a fascinating experience. I learned a lot about recording songs, such as recording the piano and voice separately and how to add harmonies and other instruments into songs.

Who are your biggest artistic influences?

I am inspired by many musicians, so it's hard to choose, but right now my biggest influences would probably be Evanescence, Within Temptation, Plumb, and Fireflight.

What or who most inspires you?

I like to write stories as well as sing, and so a lot of my songs are inspired by my characters. Many of my songs are about events that occurred in my stories. Though other songs are about me and my struggles with shyness and not fitting in.

What are your aspirations for the future?

I'd like to become a lead singer of a symphonic rock band and an author, but that most likely won't happen right away. So I'd probably start off as a creative writing or english teacher.

What is your dream destination?

The Netherlands. One of my favorite singers, Sharon den Adel from Within Temptation lives in the Netherlands so I'd love to go to one of her concerts.

Favorite food?

Spaghetti

Who's on repeat right now?

Currently, I've been listening to this symphonic metal band Epica that is similar to Within Temptation. I am obsessed with their songs "Feint" and "Quietus." I have also been listening to a Renaissance folk duo Blackmore's Night that has really creative, unique songs, such as "World of Stone" and "Fires at Midnight."